“It was important for me to go abroad because I want to pursue a career in international affairs and diplomacy. I knew that experiencing another country firsthand would give me a deeper and more meaningful understanding of global perspectives. I also wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone and become more independent. This experience allowed me to grow in ways that wouldn’t have been possible in a traditional classroom,” reflected Siena McAlister, an international studies and public management, leadership and policy major who participated in the Abroad in Cyprus: Gen Ed Themes Sustainability and Health and Well-Being program earlier this summer.
Students on the four-week program choose to enroll in one of two courses in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Geography or the College of Nursing, where they examine the geography of the European Union and the sustainability challenges that accompany them.
“This experience will help me moving forward by strengthening my global awareness and cultural understanding. It reinforced my interest in international studies and gave me real-world context for the topics I am learning about at Ohio State,” said McAlister, who enrolled in the Department of Geography’s course taught by Stavros Constantinou, a native Cypriot. “I also developed stronger communication skills by interacting with people from different backgrounds. These skills will be essential as I hope to pursue a career in diplomacy.”
Throughout the program, students participate in hands-on experiences like site visits, excursions and discussions about EU policy and its local impact, exploring how geography, politics and sustainability intersect in a region like Cyprus that is both historically and strategically important.
“From this experience, I learned that I am more adaptable and independent than I previously thought. Navigating a new country and adjusting to a different culture helped me become more confident in unfamiliar situations. I also realized how much I value cultural connection and being immersed in new environments. Overall, it showed me that I am capable of handling challenges and growing from them,” shared McAlister.
Though the experience is packed with memorable programming, McAlister’s favorite moments included participating in traditional cultural practices as well as getting to visit some of the country’s beautiful landmarks and meeting notable Cypriot figures.
“Some of the most memorable moments included participating in traditional Cypriot dances on our last day, which made me feel fully immersed in the culture. Visiting the Blue Lagoon and going on a boat tour was another highlight, as it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. We also had the unique opportunity to meet the Archbishop of Cyprus, which was an unforgettable and meaningful experience.”